RIM is reportedly set to begin showcasing “nearly complete” versions of its next-generation smartphones next week, powered by the anticipated BlackBerry 10 operating system, as it works toward a commercial launch early in 2013.

The company will demonstrate two devices during a five-week roadshow – an “all touch” unit alongside one with a keypad. It has previously said that the touchscreen-only device is set to be followed “immediately” by the QWERTY unit, meaning a simultaneous unveiling is likely.

Both devices will include LTE connectivity.

According to the Wall Street Journal, RIM is working toward a six handset portfolio, split evenly between all touch and keypad devices.

The report noted that while operator acceptance of a device can take more than six months, RIM also faces a challenge in introducing a new operating system, which will lead to a more extensive testing programme taking place.

The Financial Times said that Thorsten Heins, CEO of RIM, had also confirmed that the company is looking to license BlackBerry 10 to other device makers, but that the top priority is the launch of its own devices powered by the platform.

RIM has already been providing prototype hardware (Dev Alpha) to selected developers, in order to ensure that there is a wide range of apps available when BB10 devices finally reach consumers. The platform is underpinned by similar technology to the PlayBook tablet.

While the devices are at least set to begin shipping early in 2013, in the meantime RIM is offering a portfolio of devices powered by the legacy BlackBerry 7 platform, which has failed to significantly ignite customer demand.

The company has said that it will look to “aggressively” drive sales of these legacy devices, with a focus on maintaining the existing BlackBerry customer base and driving growth in emerging markets – but this will be achieved by price cuts, both for devices and the supporting services.